Cybersecurity Basics for Beginners: 2-Hour Udemy Review
Why Learn Cybersecurity in 2024? Especially as a Beginner?
In today’s increasingly digital world, cybersecurity is no longer optional—it’s essential. From phishing scams and ransomware to personal data leaks, the cyber threat landscape continues to evolve. Whether you’re a small business owner, team manager, or a curious beginner, learning even the fundamentals of cyber safety can go a long way in protecting your digital life.
The problem? Many cybersecurity courses online are dense, technical, and time-consuming. That’s where Udemy’s Introduction to Cyber Security course stands out.
What Is the Udemy “Introduction to Cyber Security” Course?
If you’re searching for a fast-moving, digestible way to understand the basics of cybersecurity, this course delivers. Designed specifically for complete beginners, it breaks down complex concepts into accessible, plain-English lessons.
It’s just 2 hours long—perfect for busy professionals or anyone looking to get their feet wet in the cybersecurity space without feeling overwhelmed.
What You’ll Learn in This Entry-Level Cybersecurity Course
Here’s a look at what you’ll learn:
- How firewalls and antivirus programs protect your system
- Understanding DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks
- Cybersecurity threats in cloud computing
- The role of social engineering and phishing
- Basic security protocols for remote teams
- Practical strategies to create your own cybersecurity plan
The course also touches on new trends like microsegmentation and penetration testing—but in a simplified, beginner-friendly tone.
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is aimed directly at:
- People with zero IT or cyber experience
- Small business owners managing customer data
- Managers looking to train staff on digital safety
- Anyone considering a career in cybersecurity—but unsure where to start
If your goal is to understand the basics without diving headfirst into a 50-hour technical deep dive, you’re the perfect fit.
Why This Course Works So Well for Beginners
Unlike other options out there—like the 22-week NexGenT cybersecurity bootcamp which costs over $10,000—this Udemy course is only $18.99 at the time of writing. That makes it one of the most affordable ways to dip your toes into this high-demand skill (source: Cybersecurity Course Comparison via Course Report).
Here’s what separates it from other beginner courses:
- Short video lessons (5–10 minutes each)
- Real-world examples explained simply
- No jargon or previous experience required
- Great instructor with a clear, engaging teaching style
One reviewer put it perfectly:
“It’s the first time I actually understood what firewalls do and how hackers think.” – Verified Udemy Student
Honest Downsides You Should Know
No course is perfect, and this one has a few limitations:
- No hands-on labs or labs-based simulations
- May feel too basic for those with prior IT experience
- Doesn’t prepare you directly for certifications like Security+ or CEH
If you’re planning to become a cybersecurity analyst or apply for IT security roles, you’ll likely need deeper training after this. But as a beginner stepping stone, it absolutely does the job.
How It Compares to Other Cybersecurity Courses
Many students who try this course are also looking at other beginner-friendly options. Here’s how this one stacks up:
- Udemy’s Cyber Security: Beginner to Expert: More comprehensive (6+ hrs), includes certification prep but is almost 4 times the price.
- FutureLearn: Offers free content with optional certificates but lacks the structure and feedback of Udemy’s format.
- NexGenT Cyber Specialization: Strong career prep, but priced for serious commitment ($10,000+).
In short, Udemy’s “Introduction to Cyber Security” sits in the sweet spot between affordability and accessibility.
Real Student Feedback
Across more than 11,000 reviews, it maintains a stellar 4.5-star rating.
Students love that the instructor simplifies what’s often a confusing topic. Many say they now understand terms they once found intimidating—like SSL, malware vectors, and data breaches.
However, some reviewers did wish for more quizzes or interactive content. As one student put it:
“Great intro, but I would’ve loved a few mini-labs or guided simulations to practice.”
Still, for under $20, it over-delivers in both value and clarity.
Is It Worth It? Final Verdict
If you’re brand new to cybersecurity—or if you’re just looking for a foundational crash course that helps you think more securely online—this course is absolutely worth every penny.
- ✅ No prior knowledge needed
- ✅ Covers all the must-know foundational topics
- ✅ Quick to complete (around 2 hours)
- ✅ Lifetime access with updates
But if you want to pursue a cybersecurity certification or land a job in the field, this should be seen as a first step—not a complete solution.
Ready to Learn Cybersecurity the Fast and Easy Way?
Taking your first step into cybersecurity doesn’t have to mean spending weeks reading textbooks or thousands of dollars on bootcamps. This Udemy course is designed to make it easy—and it does.
Grab the course while it’s discounted and give yourself the knowledge to browse, work, and live online with more confidence.